Aftercare

While it’s alway exciting getting a new tattoo, making sure it is well looked-after in the days that follow your sitting is crucial. Not only will this help to ensure your tattoo looks as good as it possibly can in the long run, it’ll also help to reduce any small risks of scarring or infection.

On the day that you’re tattooed, the tattoo itself will be wrapped in clingfilm before you leave the shop.This will help to protect your clothing from any residual ink/blood, while also protecting the tattoo from any germs you may encounter between the shop and your journey home.

Once you’re home, take the cling film off and hop in the bath/shower – making sure you clean the tattoo with warm soapy water. When doing this, be sure to remove as much blood, ink and plasma as possible, as this may form a damaging scab otherwise.

Following this, dry the tattoo carefully with a clean towel, making sure to dab it dry rather than rubbing it (ouch!). Once you’re happy and the tattoo is dry, allow a couple of hours before applying any aftercare products – such as Bach Rescue Cream, Bepanthen, E45 or unscented moisturiser.

When the time comes, apply the cream sparingly, as too much cream has a tendency to trap germs – which can lead to infections. After 24 hours, a light scab should form. Try not to pick or scratch this scab, and if needs must – tap it gently instead.

Heading outdoors? Be wary that an excess of direct sunlight can severely impact the healing process for tattoos. With this in mind, try to keep your tattoo covered when outside – at least for the first week or so – and avoid using sunbeds altogether.

Generally speaking, the average healing time is 7 – 14 days, although this varies from person to person depending on your immune system.

In the days that follow your tattoo, if you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to call – and try to avoid listening to the advice of well-meaning friends – especially if it conflicts with any professional advice you’ve received previously.